Wood comparison
Teak vs White Oak
Teak and white oak are two of the most specified hardwoods for flooring, furniture and joinery. They differ sharply in hardness, water resistance and price.
| Property | Burma Teak | White Oak |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Tectona grandis | Quercus alba |
| Type | Hardwood | Hardwood |
| Janka hardness | 1,070 lbf | 1,350 lbf |
| Dried weight | 655 kg/m³ | 755 kg/m³ |
| Natural durability | Very high | High |
| Origin | Myanmar (Burma) | USA, Europe |
| Best uses | Superyacht and boat decking, Premium exterior doors and windows, Luxury flooring | Engineered and solid flooring, Furniture and cabinetry, Interior joinery and panelling |
| Price tier | Premium | Mid-range |
In short — The verdict
White oak is harder and more affordable, ideal for interior flooring and furniture. Teak is softer but far more weather- and water-resistant thanks to its natural oils — the better choice for outdoor, marine and damp environments.
FAQ
What is the Janka hardness of Burma teak?
Burma teak has a Janka hardness of about 1,070 lbf (4,740 N), placing it in the medium-hard range — hard enough for flooring and decking yet workable for fine furniture.
Why is Burma teak more expensive than plantation teak?
Burma teak grows slowly in natural forests, producing tighter grain and far higher natural oil and silica content than fast-grown plantation teak. That gives superior weather resistance, stability and the signature golden colour — qualities buyers pay a premium for.
Is white oak harder than teak?
Yes — white oak (≈1,350 lbf Janka) is harder than Burma teak (≈1,070 lbf). It is more dent-resistant, but teak has far better natural water and weather resistance for outdoor use.
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